IREC is expanding its energy research capabilities through the deployment of a new generation of laboratories focused on artificial intelligence, automation, digital technologies and advanced data analytics.

INCASÒL has launched the construction works for Building D at the UPC Diagonal-Besòs Campus. The new facilities are expected to become operational before the end of 2028 and will host new research infrastructures developed through DIRECxTE (Disruption in Research for the Energy Transition).

DIRECxTE is an R&D&I infrastructure initiative that will enable IREC to develop new experimental facilities and strengthen its ability to address the scientific and technological challenges of the coming decades.

The project integrates artificial intelligence, robotic process automation, digitalisation, data analytics, cybersecurity and energy system resilience as key components of future energy research.

These facilities will expand IREC’s current capabilities and provide its research teams with new tools to generate knowledge, develop innovative technologies and deliver solutions with impact for industry and society. By combining laboratory automation, advanced data analytics, artificial intelligence and advanced experimental facilities, the new infrastructure will support a new generation of research activities in strategic areas of the energy transition.

DIRECxTE will support the development of next-generation energy technologies, strengthen IREC’s experimental capabilities and create new opportunities for scientific and technological collaboration.

The DIRECxTE project is supported by the Departament de Recerca i Universitats, through AGAUR, under the Ajuts Singulars Institucionals call awarded at the end of 2025.

The initiative represents a total investment of €12 million to deploy advanced scientific infrastructure in Building D at the UPC Diagonal-Besòs Campus and strengthen energy research capabilities before 31 December 2028.

The Ajuts Singulars Institucionals grant awarded through AGAUR provides €6 million in funding, of which €3.6 million comes from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) under the Catalonia ERDF Programme 2021–2027, while €2.4 million is provided through the Departament de Recerca i Universitats.

The remaining €6 million required to deliver the DIRECxTE project will be financed through multiannual capital contributions from the department responsible for energy policy, currently the Departament de Territori, Habitatge i Transició Ecològica.

Further information:

The construction of Building D was announced by INCASÒL, more info here

To learn more about DIRECxTE and IREC’s future research facilities, visit: DIRECxTE · World-class R&D&I Labs

Project co-funded by the European Union through the Catalonia ERDF Programme 2021–2027.